Bicycle Registration

FACTS

Statistics show that in the last five years 2,392 bicycles have been reported stolen in the City of Fort Lauderdale. There are numerous unreported bicycle thefts that also occur in the city. When comparing these figures, it is not difficult to see why a bicycle registration program is vital to the safety and well being of every resident in our community.

Police Department records indicate that the majority of bicycles reported as stolen do not include serial numbers. That makes identification and the subsequent recovery process virtually impossible. The Fort Lauderdale Police Department has developed a bicycle registration program that will keep track of all of the bicycles registered to City residents. Registration is optional for non-residents who ride into the City of Fort Lauderdale.

What is the purpose of this program?

The purpose of this program is to reduce the number of bicycles stolen and assist the police in the recovery of stolen bicycles.

How much does this registration cost?

There is NO cost to register a bicycle. Bicycle owners are provided with a decal that is attached to their bikes. The serial number and owner’s information is entered into a database, which is then made available to police officers in the community.

What happens if I don't register my bicycle?

A Police Officer may take into possession and impound any bicycle being operated or possessed on all streets, roads, highways, alleys, sidewalks, or other rights of way upon which the City has the authority to enforce traffic laws and ordinances.

What happens to my bicycle if it is impounded?

The Police Department may keep the bicycle impounded until the owner obtains a bicycle registration decal or shows proof of ownership, pays all applicable civil fines and completes any required community service hours.
Within 90 days after such impoundment, if the owner has not registered the bicycle or requested its return showing satisfactory proof of ownership, the bicycle shall be considered unclaimed evidence and the City may retain the bicycle for its use, transfer the bicycle to another governmental entity, donate the bicycle to a charitable organization or sell the bicycle.

What if I am a non-resident and do not register my bicycle?

The Police Department shall make every reasonable effort to verify out-of-city residency. In the event residency cannot be established, the bicycle shall be handled as an in-city, non-registered bicycle and may be impounded.

Do I need to bring anything with me when I register my bicycle?
Yes. You will need to bring the bicycle, and photo identification.